Mosquitoes and stored water: cover tanks, empty containers

In a water-short year, more households store water in drums, tanks and pots. Stored water that sits uncovered can breed the Aedes mosquitoes that spread dengue and chikungunya.

Where they breed. The National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) says Aedes mosquitoes breed in clean, stagnant water in and around homes, not in dirty drains. Common sites include cement, overhead and underground tanks, tyres, desert coolers, pitchers, discarded containers, rooftops, ornamental fountains and money-plant bottles where water stands for more than a week.

What to do every week.

• Cover all water containers and tanks with tight lids, and cover tank inlets and overflow pipes with mosquito mesh.
• Empty, scrub and dry water coolers at least once a week before refilling. Scrubbing the inside of containers destroys eggs.
• Change the water in flower vases, plant trays and bird baths every week, and turn unused drums and small jars upside down.
• Dispose of unused containers, tyres, coconut shells and junk that can hold water.

Protect yourself. Aedes mosquitoes bite during the day. NCVBDC advises full-sleeved clothing, repellents, and mosquito nets when sleeping in the daytime.

Make it a habit. NCVBDC encourages a weekly dry day, when homes, schools and neighbourhoods check and empty water-holding containers together.

Join the El Niño help room on soshyal.com to ask questions and share what you see in your area.